Here’s Why An Oil Cleanser Could Be The Best Thing For Your Skin – And How To Find The Right One

The world of cleansers is plentiful. There is one for every skin type and condition out there, all boasting a plethora of hard-working ingredients and textures to help serve as the foundation of your skincare routine. If you're on the hunt for a new one, chances are you may be a little confused. But we don't blame you, there's a lot to think about. There are cleansers for dry skin, oily skin, combination skin, there are cleansing brushes, cleansing balms and ones that foam or require a hot cloth. The list goes on. But spare a thought for oil cleansers.

While some may automatically recoil at the thought of cleansing with an oil, the magic of oils is that they work across the board, on all skin types and they do a fantastic job of cleansing. The right ones are powerful enough to break down make-up, dirt and debris, all while respecting the balance of even the most sensitive skin types.

'Cleaning oils work to attract oils present on the surface of the skin such as make-up, dirt, pollution and UV filters and will help dissolve them away faster than other types of cleansers,' says Gemma Collins, Bioderma’s Dermatologist. 'The physical action of rubbing a cleansing oil into the skin is also much more gentle, less abrasive and doesn’t give as much friction, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive and dry skin types. However, not all cleansing oils are created equal and it is important that the cleansing oil you choose contains mostly plant-based oils as opposed to heavy essential oils as this can potentially irritate some skin types.'

The Best Oil Cleansers At A Glance:

Best budget: Byoma Milky Oil Cleanser, £13.99

Best for oily skin: Erborian Centella Cleansing Oil, £26

Best for dry skin: MAC Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil, £36

Best of sensitive skin: Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Oil, £15.60

It all comes down to types of oils encapsulated in the formulas. Oilier skin types prone to acne should opt for lightweight ingredients like grapeseed oils, while dry skin types in need of quenching will love heavier ingredients like olive oil. You'll be pleased to know they don't leave behind a greasy residue as the surfactants included in cleansing oils allow the oils and the substances they dissolve on the skin to be rinsed away easily when combined with water. They also make for an ultra-luxurious step in any routine thanks to their often rich, comforting texture. Keen to give this once niche Korean skincare secret turned mainstream skincare step a try? Here are the best oil cleansers to try now.

Shop: Best Oil Cleansers

Best Cleansing Oils 2024 FAQs

What skin types benefit from a cleansing oil?

Cleansing oils are versatile and are good for various skin types. As they are oil-based and particularly effective for those with dry or dehydrated skin, as they help to dissolve and remove makeup and impurities without striping the skin. However, individuals with oily or combination skin can also benefit from cleansing oils, as they can help to balance oil production and prevent over-drying of the skin.

How do you use cleansing oils?

Using a cleansing oil is a straightforward process. Start with dry hands and a dry face. Dispense a small amount of the cleansing oil into your palm and gently massage it onto your dry skin using circular motions. Focus on areas with makeup or impurities. Then, add a small amount of water to emulsify the oil, continuing to massage the skin. Finally, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove the oil along with the dissolved makeup and impurities.

How often should you use one?

For most people, using a cleansing oil once a day, preferably in the evening to remove makeup and impurities accumulated throughout the day, is sufficient. However, some may prefer to use it twice daily for a thorough cleanse in the morning and evening. It’s essential to listen to your skin and adjust the frequency based on how your skin responds. Overuse can potentially lead to over-drying or irritation, so it’s essential to find the right balance for your skin type.

Renee Washington, Grazia's Digital Fashion and Beauty Assistant, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie.